Satellite police station reopened
THE Reservoir Hills satellite police station reopened earlier this month following a fund-raising effort by the local rotary club which raised R40 000 for a revamp.
Renovations started in October and included a dedicated victims’ room and repairs to the roof and plumbing. The toilets were also replaced and the station was painted and tiled.
The Reservoir Hills Rotary Club, the community police forum, several community members and the area’s councillor, Alicia Kissoon, were part of the revamp.
Ruban Chetty, the club chairperson, said he was glad all of the hard work had finally paid off.
“I’d been part of the process of introducing a satellite police station in Reservoir Hills in 1997. It was the only satellite station in the world built by a rotary club for the community.
“But the premises were unused after a number of maintenance problems. I could not let it remain a white elephant. I had to do something. I contacted the relevant parties to start the revamp and we are happy it’s reopened.
“It is now a fully-fledged police station and operates as one. It is open from 6am to 10pm seven days a week. We hope by June or July, it will operate 24 hours.”
There is a dedicated police vehicle and six police officers on duty.
Chetty said the reopening was the first of three phases.
“Next, the perimeter will be fenced and the gates replaced, and finally we hope to have containers placed for security company officers to rest or enjoy a cup of coffee.”
Kissoon said the satellite station had always been the vision of the rotary club. She said the station had been abandoned because of maintenance issues.
“The station had a leaking roof and a stormwater drain erroneously connected to the sewer. I’m privileged to see it functional again. Sydenham SAPS, mandated to police Reservoir Hills, is under pressure to service several sectors, each with its own demands. Our community was in desperate need of a dedicated team and now we have one.”
She said the CPF co-ordinated the renovations.
“It was heart-warming to see the community rally around this project and help to make the station a success. Crime has become common in all areas. Our real strength lies in the ability of our communities to work together for the betterment of all.”